I still don’t understand why my first wife left —Akin Lewis

Veteran Nollywood actor, Akin Lewis, has opened up about one of the most painful chapters of his life, his first marriage, saying he still cannot explain why his first wife walked away.

In a new interview, the screen legend revealed that despite many years having passed, he remains puzzled about what led to the unexpected end of the relationship. He described the period as one of his saddest life experiences, one that raised questions he never got answers to.

The interview which was monitored by R on African A-List Podcast, where the actor spoke about love, loss, and career longevity in the Nigerian film industry.

Speaking with emotion, Lewis said: “I still don’t understand why the woman left till today.” The actor added that the sudden collapse of the marriage shook him deeply and shaped how he now views relationships and human behaviour.

Despite the personal heartbreak, Lewis refused to dwell on the past, saying the experience made him stronger, more focused, and more appreciative of his career and life’s journey.

The actor also used the platform to address the ongoing conversation about the fees charged by veteran actors in Nollywood, especially when producers complain that established names cost too much to feature in movies.

A visibly irritated Lewis dismissed such complaints as ignorant and disrespectful, insisting that true professionalism deserves its price. He said anyone who grumbles about his charges is simply “silly” and doesn’t understand the value of experience.

Lewis stressed that he has spent 52 years building his career in film and theatre, and 20 of those years were devoted to education, learning and studying the craft at the highest level. He added that he continues to study to date, constantly sharpening his skills.

According to him, the idea that veteran actors should work for less or be grateful just to be included in films is insulting to generations of creatives who built the industry from scratch.

“If you need my services, pay me well or leave me out of the job,” Lewis stated firmly, noting that professionalism, respect, and fair compensation remain the minimum standards for anyone hiring him.